Most homes have natural gas service for cooking, heating, and powering other appliances. This utility is a more cost-effective solution than electricity for many of these necessities. And any chef that you ask will quickly tell you that natural gas offers a far superior cooking surface due to the exceptional heat control. But what you might not be thinking about are the added safety precautions that should go along with natural gas service. Regular inspections of gas lines and only using a licensed plumber for repairs or installations will eliminate potential hazards. And allow you to enjoy the comfort and cost-effectiveness of gas without any concerns.
Be Alert
Nothing is ever perfect forever. Everything in your home will begin to show signs of wear and tear after years of use. And gas lines are no exception. For the safety of your loved ones and your home, it is essential that you know what to do in the event of a gas leak in your home. These facts and tips will help keep you and your family safe in the event of a gas leak:
- Gas is colorless and odorless, but a chemical additive provides the sulfur smell you will notice if there is a gas leak in your home.
- Natural gas is toxic to humans and pets.
- Natural gas is very flammable and can ignite easily.
- If you smell gas, immediately evacuate everyone from your home, leaving the doors open as you exit.
- Leaving doors and windows open will help prevent the gas from building up inside your home.
- Once everyone is safely away from the house, call 911 to report a possible gas leak.
- If you can access the main gas shut-off valve from outside your home, carefully close the valve.
- Never reenter your home until it has been deemed safe by the fire department or a licensed plumber.
Once Everyone Is Safe
When you suspect a gas leak in your home, a licensed plumber is the only professional you should call. These professionals have the tools and training to safely enter a house with a possible gas leak and determine if there is a leak and where it is located. And they also have the hands-on experience and expertise to repair the leak. Call (701) 402-6442 to request emergency gas line service when you suspect an issue in your home. A licensed plumber from Total Care Plumbing will arrive quickly to begin inspecting your home.
Symptoms Of Exposure To A Gas Leak
Even if you do not smell gas, there could be other indications of a gas leak in your home. When humans are exposed to natural gas, many symptoms can appear, including:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Runny Nose
- Red, Itchy Eyes
- Coughing And Throat Irritation
- Trouble Breathing
If you notice some or all of these symptoms in one or more of the people in your home, evacuate quickly. The symptoms can vary from person to person. And those with preexisting breathing conditions can be rapidly overcome by a gas leak.
Call The Team You Can Trust
At Total Care Plumbing, we are here for you 24/7. Any time you have a concern about a gas leak, evacuate your home and call us immediately. Your safety is always the most critical concern for our team. We will inspect your entire house to ensure that everything is safe before allowing you to reenter the home. Our licensed plumbers have years of training and expertise in locating and repairing gas leaks. And we will be there for you and your family soon after you call us at (701) 402-6442.
